Column: Huge game, but keep it in perspective

Hays CarlyonSports Writer

Published Friday, November 26, 2004

Leave the hate at home. Bring the party.

St. Augustine High and Nease will face off tonight in the biggest football game in county history. A berth in the Class 3A Final Four is at stake. There will be triumphant joy on one sideline. On the other, tears of disappointment.

This game is huge. A monster. One that certainly will be remembered well into the future.

However, a segment of our community this week has been reluctant to admit this. Maybe its because we now associate big games and intense rivalries with chair-throwing and riots.

I guess its a good thing our sports staff doesnt have any of Don Kings creativity in us. Once a sporting event has a nickname, you might as well pass out straight jackets to the first 1,000 fans.

"Hostility in the Oldest City."

"Thrilla on Varella."

"Bloodletting at Brumley."

None seemed to stick.

While I do think school officials should take the necessary security precautions tonight (block off the midfield logo with police tape during warm-ups), this is supposed to be a fun event. Its a football game. No matter the outcome, no matter how upset the losing team and its fans will be, the sun will still rise Saturday morning. Always remember in football that losing hurts, but it passes.

There are a billion people in China who dont even know this game is being played. For some reason, that always worked for me after a tough loss.

Its all about perspective.

Both SAHS and Nease have enjoyed tremendous seasons. A loss tonight doesnt take away St. Augustines District 6-3A championship trophy. A loss tonight doesnt take away Neases program-best 11 victories this season.

This game is all about the rich, gooey, yummy chocolate icing on the cake.

This has been a fantastic year for county football, and this game is our reward. Make the most of it. Scream in support of your team.

But remember, tonights game is also a reward for the players. This is a special opportunity earned through hard work that dates back to spring practice and beyond.

This will be a lifelong memory for these players, and it would be a shame if that memory was tainted by irresponsible actions in the stands or on the field.

Tonights game is a great occasion. Enjoy it. This is a watershed mark in our countys sports history. Dont downplay this game, because its unlikely well ever have it again.

Whatever the outcome, this is a positive experience for the county. It proves that some of the best football in the state is played right here in our backyard.